ISFP Vs INFP (A Comparative Analysis)

This article will look at both the ISFP and INFP personalities and highlight their traits as well so the readers can identify the differences between them. The article will also explain what the MBTI inventory of personalities is so the audience has a better understanding of the topic.

ISFP Vs INFP – What Is The Difference?

The main difference between the ISFP and INFP is in the way they react or interact with their surroundings; the ISFP is more spontaneous whereas the INFP personality type is quite cautious in how they go about their dealings with others. 

Here are some differences that can help you tell the two apart:

• ISFPs are more aware of their surroundings and will react in a more accurate manner to external stimuli because of their sensing function however when it comes to INFPs they are more present in their inner world and this is usually because of their intuitive function.

• INFPs will use riddles or indirect means of expressing their own thoughts, ideas, opinions or values whereas the ISFP personality will take up a more direct approach and just say what they think or feel.

• When it comes to symbols, art, music and other expressions the INFP will look for an underlying meaning whereas the ISFP will take things as they are.

• The ISFP is quite spontaneous and carefree in their interaction with others compared to the INFP who is more self aware, conscious and careful because they have a habit of overthinking sometimes and they may actually see things in people the other personality type does not.

• ISFPs are easy going whereas the INFP has higher standards not only for themself but others too; they aspire towards an ideal world.

• ISFPs are concerned about the here and now because of their focus on their own senses that are receiving information all the time in the present. The INFP is more oriented towards the future.

• When it comes to determining what is right or wrong or taking a decision, the INFP will take into account many factors that may be subjective and objective whereas the ISFP will look at objective concrete information their senses have gathered.

Who Is An INFP?

INFPs are introverted which means they tend to be very much into their thoughts and like to spend time reflecting over the many ideas they have going on in their minds. 

Well firstly, they are smart to think over things and then talk about them. When in a fight, they are more likely to avoid friction not only because they have the habit of staying quiet but also because they are people who think before they speak. This way they can actually prevent themselves from hurting the other person and making the situation worse. 

Furthermore, these individuals need time for themselves. They understand that they have to be very careful about the personal space of the other and should ensure they do not interfere too much when they are in that ‘zone’. Maybe someone who is not an introvert might not understand their need to have time alone and get even more frustrated when the other person is quiet. This will lead to an even worse situation more difficult to solve.

Sometimes expecting too much and saying what you feel may be a bad thing. People are introverts hence they operate on the same frequency and they understand that some things must be said while others not. This can prevent them from raising the bar of expectations too high and being wise enough to see when a certain topic should be discussed or not.

INFPs realize the power and beauty of imagination and dreams and this allows them to be creative and more interesting not to themselves only but to each other. How they think can become a good source of conversation for them compared to a person who senses and reacts or processes information. They would be more based on facts and not understand the fun in being so creative.

This is what INFPs give preference to in their day to day dealings and how they understand their surroundings. This is very important in helping a relationship get through. Oftentime it is not possible to rationalize things in a relationship hence one must employ the power of love, mercy and forgiveness to take things forward.

The ISFP Type

This personality type is very organized, highly conscientious and likes to look at the details or small things. Furthermore, they are loyal and security oriented. Although some ISFPs may differ when it comes to their behaviour, a substantial number of them exhibit these traits. One of the ways they try to feel secure is by controlling every aspect of their life and they tend to do this by remaining organized

ISFPs are introverts in that they find peace and satisfaction in their thoughts and solitude. They prefer to spend most of their time alone, engaging in their thoughts, reflections and ideas in order to come up with productive ideas or understand their surroundings. They focus on their thoughts and hence can turn out to be individuals who are creative, logical or even innovative depending on the other elements of their personality.

People who use sensing as a dominant function understand the world using their five senses; they like to live in the now and observe or practically experience their surroundings. They are not as focused as others on what possibilities their mind has to offer; rather they would simply take in information and process it to recognize what is already here but just extract it and make it useful.

ISFPs place much weightage on their emotions when it comes to understanding others and their surroundings and how it impacts them. Due to this function, they are more likely to consider values and core beliefs rather than fact and logic or the truth while making decisions. 

People with this function appreciate the spontaneity in life rather than following an everyday mundane routine. They are quite flexible but can be disorganized too and don’t really believe in planning, especially long term plans. They just go with the flow. They are not very stubborn in the sense that they like to have options, do not demand immediate results and hence are more likely to identify opportunities along the way.

The Traits They Share – INFPs & ISFPs

Here are some traits the two personality types share:

Caring.

They are caring, nurturing and empathetic. They realize the importance of feelings and acknowledge them. Instead of sticking to the logic and rationale behind an argument or disagreement, they are more likely to forgive the other or give in due to love, mercy and patience for the other. They are the type of people to make sure the other person is not hurt because of their actions. In case they do hurt the other they will recognize it sooner and take corrective action!

Passionate Love.

Not literally but yes they do understand the value of love they have between each other. As personalities, INFPs and ISFPs are very passionate about what interests them whether it’s their work, an idea or project they pursue or even their loved one. The passion between such personality types keeps their love alive and interesting.

Being passionate makes it easier to keep the other person involved and happy and you feel valued hence issues like lack of interest, boredom or not focusing on your partner rarely arise in these relations if they are both involved.

Open Minded.

They do not think narrowly or in boxes nor do they like reduced options. INFPs and ISFPs are open minded personalities and this suits them very well. They are not insecure nor do they like forcing the other into corners. It allows them to be free and go with the flow and not worry too much about what their partner will think of them if they do something particular. It keeps both stress free and light.

Same Values.

INFPs and ISFPs are empathetic; they feel for people who are in pain and what to make the world a better place. They are against the cruelties and injustices that take place and want to put a stop to that. 

Having the same values makes it easier to plan for the future. You will find that your partner will take up the same activities as you do and talk about topics you believe in. This will not only keep INFPs interested in each other but they won’t find it hard to spend long hours together; time will fly by soon!

 What is the Myer Briggs Type Indicator?

Are you familiar with an INTJ or an ETSP? Do you have any idea what they mean or who they could possibly describe? These are not some secret codes but terms that are used to describe the personality types of people who have taken the Myer Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI).

The Myer Briggs Type Indicator is a self-report questionnaire based on Carl Jung’s theory that individuals experience the world using four psychological functions namely sensation, intuition, feeling and thinking with either one of these being the dominant factor. The personality test determines which of these functions best describes a person hence detailing their personality, strengths and attitudes; it assigns one of the 16 personality types (just like INTJ or ETSP) to the individual taking the test.

Conclusion

This article clearly described the differences between the ISFP and INFP personality types and also highlighted some similarities between them. The article introduced both personalities in detail and also explained what the MBTI is.

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